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7 Web Design Trends for 2016

Monday 7 September 2015

7 minute read

By Thrive HQ

A website is one of the most important tools for any business and has been for a number of years now. If you want to promote your products and services to a wider audience, then a website is the clear choice.

However, like most marketing methods, website are regularly changing. Each year there are trends, new ideas and technologies to be implemented. Some trends just become short-lived fads, whilst others are here for the long haul.

Let's look at some of the trend that are here to stay for 2016 and beyond...

1. Personalised User Experiences

Making your website visitor feel like your are communicating with them on a more personal level will certainly help you to generate more leads and sales.

For example, Netflix shows you what you have recently watched and offers you similar TV shows and films, by using your name it adds more personalisation to your experience.  

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2. High Resolution Moving Images

When you are trying to brighten up a website you may consider adding an image or video, but why not try a cinemagraph? A cinemagraph or a moving image is a simple but effective way to bring your website to life. We love this example...

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3. Storytelling and Interaction

Storytelling is already hugely popular in web design, because it is a primal form of communication. Stories are easier to remember and interact with, so if you have an interactive story on your website visitors are more likely to engage with and remember your brand.

4. Big Photographic Elements

We all know that a photograph can say a thousand words, so making your website very visual by adding high quality, large photographs can make it more appealing. Plus focusing on producing more visual elements and the overhaul design of your website, makes any and all content easier to digest. Looking for visual inspiration for your 2016 website update? Consider using large photographic elements like this example... [Source: Inzeit]

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5. Typography

For those of you who don't know, typography is the 'art of arranging type and making it more readable and appealing'.

Many brands are starting to use typography for their brand and, of course, on their website. If you are looking to add character to your text, stay away from common fonts like Arial or Helvetica, typography is the way to go.

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6. Minimalism

Less really is more. Having a one page website or a few simplified pages makes your website easier to use on both computers and mobiles. Visitors will find what they are looking for quicker and the message you are trying to give your visitors when they visit your website will be clear and simple to understand. 

7. Flat Designs

Flat design is a minimalistic and emphasises usability with clean, crisp edges and bright colours. Brands are starting to go for the simple but effective look with their websites and flat design helps them create icons that are clear and easy to use.

Why not consider these design ideas if you're looking to revamp your company's online presence in 2016.

Thrive's design and web teams are experienced specialists in brand development and website design, allowing you to refresh your image or overhaul your company presence altogether. Ask - hello@thriveability.co.uk or 0845 838 7517 - and we will be happy to sit and chat about your brand and web challenges.

If you're looking to embark on a website build project, whether it's completely from scratch or a site refresh, our ebook will give you the knowledge to make your project as stress-free as possible.

The Website Design Handbook for Businesses

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